Base Material for Printing: Recent Developments in Transparent Barrier Films

Abstract

Greater awareness of plastic marine waste is drastically changing needs for plastic packaging. Single materials (monomaterials) might allow for easier recycling, the monomaterial concept poses challenges for transparent barrier films, which extend food shelf life by suppressing the permeation of gas molecules that cause spoilage. In this paper, we discuss how Toppan is working to meet these challenges. Toppan's GL FILM products are mainly based on physical vapor deposition coating technologies that achieve highly stable oxygen and water vapor barrier properties. Toppan has recently combined mechanically recycled PET (MRPET) with our coating technology to create a product with similar properties but lower CO₂ emissions (by 17%). We have also developed a monomaterial transparent barrier film based on polypropylene—GL-X-BP—that can withstand boil-sterilization and hot filling. Although it is notoriously difficult to apply barrier coatings to polyethylene, we have also adapted our technology to create GL-X-LE. Toppan's barrier films are now being used in various packaging systems to support efforts to reduce food waste. This is useful in that switching from standard films to a high-barrier film (GX-P-F) effectively extends the shelf life of confectionery and dried foods. In this manner, Toppan is continuing to apply our experience and innovating new products to offer solutions for some of society's most urgent problems.